LEARNING LOG 9/8
What? In class we talked about different types of research. We diccussed Correlation, Descpritive, Experimental, and Action Study research. One important thing that I learned about Correlation is that it research studying the relationship between two or more things. One of the benefits to Correlation research is that it allows us to make predictions. My group was assigned specifically assigned to present Descriptive research. Descriptive research allows us to view a snapshot of what has happened, or what is happening. It simply deals with the facts. One of the negative things about Descriptives studies is that it does not tell why, and it does not tell you what to do with your results. Experimental research is different from the rest because it deals directly with cause and effect. However, Experimental is difficult to perform because of ethics, as well as it is difficult to implement. I had never heard of Action Study research before this class. What it is, is teachers doing research with their own classrooms. Its greatest strength is also its weakness, and that is that is customary to the specific teachers class who performed the research. We started off class talking about theories and why we need them. I really like the analogy of the toolbox. We need a hammer for somethings and a screwdriver for others. Theories are like the tools in the toolbox. They are only useful when you know them and use them for the right job. This class is designed to teach that. I am excited for what I am going to learn.
So What? Research is not accurately used by the media. It takes correalational studies and makes it cause and effect. Research is never 100% correct. Teachers need to use many theories in the classroom. Each child is different and what works for one will not work for another. People need to be aware of the different types of research in order to accurately view results.
Now What? I am going to look at research with new eyes. I will understand the research does not always provide definite answers and does not have to include cause and effect. I will use action study in my classroom knowing that what works for me may not work for someone else. I will learn all the theories taught in this class to the best of my ability so that I can be an influencial teacher. I want to learn the materials in my classes in this program and know how to use it, rather than just get the grade.